A note on solid gold and silver…

A common question we hear a lot: "Is my jewelry waterproof?" The answer: If your jewelry is made of solid gold or sterling silver, it is waterproof. Its color will never fade, as it is made of one solid material all the way through. A clue? Look for markings on the metal that say: 14K, 18K, 22K (for solid gold) and 925 (for solid silver). 

Many fast fashion jewelry companies will guarantee that their plated jewelry is "tarnish proof.” This is sadly not the case. Over time, any material that is not solid gold or solid silver will fade. In short: Invest in the real stuff — pure gold and silver has inherent material value, with a beauty made to last forever.   

A note on care for solid silver. If unworn for long periods of time and exposed to air (as in, not kept in a sealed jewelry box), your silver jewelry may tarnish. This is not the silver “wearing off.” It’s a natural process where the metal reacts with compounds in the air. 

You can return the piece to its original sheen by simply rubbing a polishing cloth over the surface. Paradoxically (and wonderfully!) wearing your silver daily or often will not cause it to tarnish, it will actually help the material retain its bright, luminescent sheen. Your skin’s natural oils help clean and polish the metal as you wear it. We love science.